Trolley system and method for transferring cargo in relation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle

ABSTRACT

A trolley system for transferring cargo in relation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle includes a frame defining a cargo-retaining platform. The cargo-retaining platform is configured to receive and retain the cargo. At least a portion of a lower surface of the frame is formed of a low friction material. One or more handles are moveably coupled to the frame. The handle(s) are configured to be moved between a retracted position and an extended position. One or more attachments are configured to secure the cargo on the cargo-retaining platform.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a division of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/827,861, entitled “Trolley System and Method for Transferring Cargoin Relation to a Cargo Compartment of a Vehicle,” filed Mar. 24, 2020,which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to a trolleysystem and method, and more particularly to a trolley system and methodfor transferring cargo in relation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle,such as a commercial aircraft.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Commercial aircraft are used to transport passengers between variouslocations. Certain persons of reduced mobility (such as individualshaving disabilities, injuries, or a reduced ability to move) may use awheelchair or scooter. When such individuals travel, their wheelchairsor scooters may be stored in a cargo compartment of the aircraft.

Typically, items such as powered wheelchairs or scooters are pushed,carried, or driven between a terminal or gate of an airport, and a cargobelt loader. Once at the cargo belt loader, such items are lifted ontothe cargo belt loader, which then conveys the items toward and into acargo compartment of the aircraft. Once within the cargo compartment,the items are typically pushed or slid into a secure retaining area.

As can be appreciated, the process of transferring large cargo items,such as powered wheelchairs and scooters, into and out of a cargocompartment of an aircraft is time-consuming. Further, such process islabor intensive, and may cause discomfort to individuals loading andunloading the large and heavy cargo items into and out of the cargocompartment. Moreover, the individuals that load and unload cargo itemssuch as powered wheelchairs and scooters into and out of the cargocompartment may not be fully aware of how to operate such items. Assuch, the process of loading and unloading powered wheelchairs andscooters into and out of a cargo compartment may undesirably affectoperation of such items, such as if brakes are not properly operated.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A need exists for a system and a method for efficiently, effectively,and safely transferring large cargo items, such as powered wheelchairsand scooters, in relation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle, such as acommercial aircraft.

With those needs in mind, certain embodiments of the present disclosureprovide a trolley system for transferring cargo in relation to a cargocompartment of a vehicle. The trolley system includes a frame defining acargo-retaining platform. The cargo-retaining platform is configured toreceive and retain the cargo. At least a portion of a lower surface ofthe frame is formed of a low friction material. One or more handles aremoveably coupled to the frame. The handle(s) are configured to be movedbetween a retracted position and an extended position. One or moreattachments are to secure the cargo on the cargo-retaining platform.

In at least one embodiment, the frame includes a retaining panconfigured to be positioned underneath the cargo.

As an example, the handle(s) include a first grasping portion, and asecond grasping portion. The first grasping portion and the secondgrasping portion outwardly extend from the frame when the handle(s) arein the retracted position.

In at least one embodiment, the frame includes low friction pads thatare formed of the low friction material.

In at least one embodiment, the frame further includes a chamfered firstlower edge at a first end, and a chamfered second lower edge at a secondend that is opposite from the first end.

In at least one embodiment, one or more rollers are coupled to theframe. The roller(s) are configured to allow the trolley system to berolled. As an example, lower surfaces of the roller(s) are within aplane that is above or coplanar with the lower surface of the frame.

In at least one embodiment, the handle(s) in the extended position allowthe trolley system to be upwardly pivoted about an axis of the roller(s)so that the roller(s) directly contact a floor and allow the trolleysystem to be rolled via the roller(s).

As an example, the attachment(s) may include one or more straps.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method fortransferring cargo in relation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle. Themethod includes retaining cargo on a cargo-retaining platform of a frameof a trolley system; securing the cargo on the cargo-retaining platformwith one or more attachments coupled to the frame; moving one or morehandles coupled to the frame between a retracted position and anextended position; and sliding a portion of a lower surface of the frameformed of a low friction material over a floor surface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a trolley system supporting cargo,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a power scooter.

FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of a power wheelchair.

FIG. 4 illustrates a lateral view of the trolley system, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of the trolley system of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 illustrates an end view of the trolley system of FIG. 4.

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the trolley system throughline 7-7 of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the trolley system throughline 8-8 of FIG. 5.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective front view of an aircraft, according toan embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective lateral view of a cargo loaderproximate to a cargo compartment of the aircraft, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective internal view of the cargocompartment, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates a flow chart of a method of transferring cargo,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates a flow chart of a method of transferring cargo inrelation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle, according to an embodimentof the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description ofcertain embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunctionwith the appended drawings. As used herein, an element or step recitedin the singular and preceded by the word “a” or “an” should beunderstood as not necessarily excluding the plural of the elements orsteps. Further, references to “one embodiment” are not intended to beinterpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments thatalso incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitlystated to the contrary, embodiments “comprising” or “having” an elementor a plurality of elements having a particular condition can includeadditional elements not having that condition.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a trolley systemfor transferring large cargo items, such as powered wheelchairs andscooters, in relation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle, such as acommercial aircraft. The trolley system is configured to provideefficient, safe, fast, and effective transfer of cargo in relation to(for example, into and out of) the cargo compartment. The trolley systemallows for quick and easy transfer of the cargo between an airportterminal or gate and the cargo compartment, for example.

In at least one embodiment, the trolley system includes a frame,attachments for securing cargo to the frame, extendable handles, and lowfriction material on at least one surface for easy sliding within acargo compartment. One or more wheels are coupled to the frame to allowfor rolling transfer of the cargo, such as between a gate and a cargoloader.

In at least one embodiment, a method for handling cargo includes using atrolley system to transport the cargo. Said using includes securing thecargo to the trolley, lifting the trolley with extendable handles, andsliding the trolley system within a cargo compartment of a vehicle. Saidsliding is accomplished via a low friction material on at least onesurface of the trolley system.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide safe, fast, anddamage-free handling of cargo (such as powered wheelchairs, scooters,large baggage, appliances, packaged goods, and/or the like) between afirst area, such as an airport terminal or gate, and a second area, suchas a cargo compartment of an aircraft. The trolley system provides alow-cost and lightweight structure, which reduces costs to vehicleoperators (for example, costs associated with labor of transferringcargo, potential damage to cargo, and the like). Further, the trolleysystem improves passenger experience and travel mobility options, suchas for persons of reduced mobility who prefer and/or need to travel withpowered wheelchairs or scooters.

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a trolley system 100 supportingcargo 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Thetrolley system 100 is configured to transfer the cargo 102 between afirst area, such as a terminal or gate of an airport, and a second area,such as a cargo compartment of a vehicle, such as a commercial aircraft.Examples of the cargo 102 include a wheelchair (whether powered orunpowered), a powered scooter, large and/or multiple items of baggage,one or more packaged goods, one or more appliances, and/or the like.

FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a power scooter 102 a . FIG. 3illustrates a block diagram of a power wheelchair 102 b . Referring toFIGS. 2 and 3, the power scooter 102 a and the power wheelchair 102 bare examples of the cargo 102, shown in FIG. 1. The power scooter 102 aand the power wheelchair 102 b are used by persons of reduced mobility.Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the trolley system 100 is configured to quickly,safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively move the cargo 102, such asthe power scooter 102 a or the power wheelchair 102 b , between a firstarea (for example, a terminal or gate of an airport) and a second area(for example, a cargo compartment of a commercial aircraft). As such,the individual who owns the power scooter 102 a or the power wheelchair102 b is able to travel with such item knowing that the item will not bedamaged. Further, the trolley system 100 prevents, minimizes, orotherwise reduces potential discomfort or injury to personnel chargedwith transferring the cargo 102 between the different areas.

FIG. 4 illustrates a lateral view of the trolley system 100, accordingto an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 illustrates a topview of the trolley system 100 of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 illustrates an end viewof the trolley system 100 of FIG. 4. FIG. 7 illustrates across-sectional view of the trolley system 100 through line 7-7 of FIG.5. FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the trolley system 100through line 8-8 of FIG. 5.

Referring to FIGS. 4-8, the trolley system 100 includes a frame 104 thatdefines a cargo-retaining platform 105. The frame 104 includes lowerlateral beams 106, and lower cross beams 108 that connect the lowerlateral beams 106 together. For example, the trolley system 100 includestwo lower lateral beams 106 connected together by a plurality of lowercross beams 108, which may be orthogonal (for example, perpendicular) tothe lower lateral beams 106. The frame 104 may include more or lesslower cross beams 108 than shown.

In at least one embodiment, the lower cross beams 108 support aretaining pan 110, such as a metal or plastic panel. The retaining pan110 is configured to be positioned underneath the cargo 102 (shown inFIG. 1). The retaining pan 110 may be secured over or under the lowercross beams 108 and/or the lower lateral beams 106. Optionally, theframe 104 may include the retaining pan 110 instead of the lower crossbeams 108. That is, the retaining pan 110 may connect the lower lateralbeams 106 together. The retaining pan 110 is configured to capture andretain stray components (such as fasteners), leaked fluids, and/or thelike from the cargo 102 (shown in FIG. 1) supported on the trolleysystem 100. Alternatively, the trolley system 100 may not include theretaining pan 110.

The frame 104 also includes a first end bracket 112 at a first end 114and a second end bracket 116 at a second end 118 that is opposite fromthe first end 114. The first end bracket 112 includes one or moreupright beams 120 that upwardly extend from the lower lateral beams 106.The upright beams 120 may be perpendicular to the lower lateral beams106. For example, the upright beams 120 may be vertical beams, and thelower lateral beams 106 may be horizontal beams. The upright beams 120on one side connect to a first handle retainer 122 and the upright beams120 on an opposite side connect to a second handle retainer 124. Eachhandle retainer 122 and 124 includes a central passage 126. One or moreupper cross beams 128 may connect the upright beams 120 on oppositesides of the trolley system 100 together. Additionally, angled bracingstruts 130 may connect to the upright beams 120 on one or both sides ofthe trolley system 100 to provide additional supporting strength.

The frame 104 may also include upper lateral beams 132 on each side ofthe trolley system 100. The upper lateral beams 132 are parallel to thelower lateral beams 106 and are coupled to, and span between, the firstend bracket 112 and the second end bracket 116. Lateral upright beams134 and angled bracing struts 136 may extend between the lower crossbeam 106 and the upper cross beam 132 on one or both sides of thetrolley system 100.

A lower surface 138 of the frame 104, such as lower surfaces of thelower lateral beams 106, the lower cross beams 108, and/or the retainingpan 110 may be formed with or otherwise coupled to a low friction pad(s)140 formed of a low friction material, such as polyethylene,polyurethane, and/or the like. The low friction pad(s) 140 allows thetrolley system 100 to easily slide over surfaces, such as a metal floorwithin a cargo compartment. In at least one embodiment, a first loweredge 142 at the first end 114 of the frame 104 and a second lower edge144 at the second end 118 of the frame 104 are chamfered and/or rounded,blunted, or the like. The chamfered first lower edge 142 and thechamfered second lower edge 144 further facilitate easy sliding of thetrolley system 100 over a surface. The chamfered first lower edge 142and the chamfered second lower edge 144 prevent, minimize, or otherwisereduce a potential of the lower surface 138 catching or snagging onother components within an area. Alternatively, one or both of the firstlower edge 142 and/or the second lower edge 144 may not be chamfered.

The second end bracket 116 includes lateral panels 146 and 148 thatupwardly extend from the lower lateral beams 106 at the second end 118.The lateral panel 146 connect to a third handle retainer 150 and thelateral panel 148 connects to a fourth handle retainer 152. Each handleretainer 150 and 162 includes a central passage 154. One or more uppercross beams 156 may connect the lateral panels 146 and 148 together.

The first handle retainer 122 is coaxial with the third handle retainer150. The second handle retainer 124 is coaxial with the fourth handleretainer 152. As shown, the first handle retainer 122 is spaced apartfrom the third handle retainer 150, and the second handle retainer 124is spaced apart from the fourth handle retainer 152. Optionally, asingle handle retainer may extend along a side of the trolley system 100between the first end 114 and the second end 118.

The first handle retainer 122 and the third handle retainer 150cooperate to retain a first handle 170 and the second handle retainer124 and the fourth handle retainer 152 cooperate to retain a secondhandle 172. Each of the first handle 170 and the second handle 172include a first end grasping portion 174 connected to a second endgrasping portion 176 by a main longitudinal body 178. The first handle170 and the second handle 172 are configured to be moved between aretracted position, as shown in FIG. 4, and an extended position. FIG. 5shows the first handle 170 in the retracted position, and the secondhandle 172 in the extended position.

In the retracted position, the first grasping portions 174 extendoutwardly from the first handle retainer 122 and the second handleretainer 124, and the second grasping portions 176 extend outwardly fromthe third handle retainer 150 and the fourth handle retainer 152. Assuch, when both the first handle 170 and the second handle 172 are inthe retracted position, four grasping areas, namely two first graspingportions 174 at the first end 114 and two grasping portions 176 at thesecond end 118, are readily apparent and available for use. In thismanner, the trolley system 100 having the first handle 170 and thesecond handle 172 in the retracted positions may be carried by fourindividuals (such as an individual at each corner), allowing the weightof the cargo 102 supported on the trolley system 100 to be distributedamong the four individuals, thereby reducing muscle stress and strain(as compared to if a single individual attempted to move the cargo 102).

In order to provide leverage, the first handle 170 and the second handle172 are slid into the extended positions, outwardly from the first end114 in the direction of arrow A. In the extended positions, the secondgrasping portions 176 are slid inwardly and toward the first end 114,thereby no longer extending outwardly from the second end 118. Stopmembers 180 are disposed within the first handle retainer 122 and thesecond handle retainer 124. The stop members 180 may be detents,latches, clasps, barbs, and/or the like that are configured to preventthe first grasping portions 176 from passing entirely through and out ofthe first handle retainer 122 and the second handle retainer 124.

In at least one embodiment, rollers 182 (such as polyurethane wheels)are rotatably coupled to the second end 118. For example, a roller 182is rotatably coupled to the first panel 146 via an axle 184, and aroller 182 is rotatably coupled to the second panel 148 via an axle 184.As shown in FIG. 4, lower surfaces 186 of the rollers 182 may be withina plane that is above or coplanar with the lower surface 138 of thetrolley system 100. As such, when the trolley system 100 lies flat on asurface, the trolley system 100 is not susceptible to inadvertentlyrolling via the rollers 182.

When the first handle 170 and the second handle 172 are moved into theextended positions, the trolley system 100 may be pivoted upwardly inthe direction of arc B about the rollers 182, so that the rollers 182directly touch a floor surface without the lower surface 138 touchingthe floor surface. In this manner, an individual may upwardly pivot thetrolley system 100 about an axis 185 defined by the axles 184, and rollthe trolley system 100 (and cargo 102 secured to the trolley system 100)via the rollers 182. Alternatively, the trolley system 100 may notinclude the rollers 182.

One or more attachments 190 are secured to the frame 104. In at leastone embodiment, the attachments 190 are straps, ropes, cords, tie-downs,hook and loops fasteners, and/or the like. As shown, the trolley system100 may include four attachments 190, with each corner having anattachment 190. The attachments 190 may be secured to the lower lateralbeams 106 and/or one or more of the lower cross beams 108. Optionally,the attachments 190 may be secured to other beams. Further, the trolleysystem 100 can include more attachments 190 than shown. As anotherexample, the trolley system 100 includes less than four attachments 190,such as one, two, or three attachments 190.

Referring to FIGS. 1-8, the trolley system 100 is configured to transferthe cargo 102 in relation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle. Thetrolley system 100 includes the frame 104 defining the cargo-retainingplatform 105. The cargo-retaining platform 105 is configured to receiveand retain the cargo 102. At least a portion of the lower surface 138 ofthe frame 104 is formed of a low friction material. One or more handles(such as the first handle 170 and/or the second handle 172) are moveablycoupled to the frame 104. The handle(s)s are configured to be movedbetween a retracted position and an extended position. One or moreattachments 190 (such as one or more straps) are configured to securethe cargo 102 on the cargo-retaining platform 105.

In at least one embodiment, the frame 104 includes the retaining pan100, which is configured to be positioned underneath the cargo 102.

In at least one embodiment, the handle(s) 104 include a first graspingportion 174, and a second grasping portion 176. The first graspingportion 174 and the second grasping portion 176 outwardly extend fromthe frame 104 when the handle(s) are in the retracted position.

In at least one embodiment, the frame 104 includes low friction pads 140that are formed of the low friction material. In at least oneembodiment, the frame 104 further includes a chamfered first lower edge142 at the first end 114, and a chamfered second lower edge 144 at thesecond end 118 that is opposite from the first end 114.

In at least one embodiment, one or more rollers 182 are coupled to theframe 104. The roller(s) 182 are configured to allow the trolley system100 to be rolled. In at least one embodiment, one or more lower surfaces186 of the roller(s) 184 are within a plane that is above or coplanarwith the lower surface 138 of the frame 104. The handle(s) in theextended position allow the trolley system 100 to be upwardly pivotedabout the axis 185 of the roller(s) 184 so that the roller(s) 184directly contact a floor and allow the trolley system 100 to be rolledvia the roller(s) 184.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective front view of an aircraft 210,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The aircraft 210includes a propulsion system 212 that includes engines 214, for example.Optionally, the propulsion system 212 may include more engines 214 thanshown. The engines 214 are carried by wings 216 of the aircraft 210. Inother embodiments, the engines 214 may be carried by a fuselage 218and/or an empennage 220. The empennage 220 may also support horizontalstabilizers 222 and a vertical stabilizer 224.

The fuselage 218 of the aircraft 210 defines an internal cabin 230,which includes a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work sections (forexample, galleys, personnel carry-on baggage areas, and the like), oneor more passenger sections (for example, first class, business class,and coach sections), one or more lavatories, and/or the like. Theaircraft 210 further includes a cargo compartment. Referring to FIGS.1-9, the trolley system 100 is used to transfer the cargo 102 inrelation to the cargo compartment when the aircraft 210 is on the groundand parked at a gate, for example.

Alternatively, instead of an aircraft, embodiments of the presentdisclosure may be used with various other vehicles, such as automobiles,buses, locomotives and train cars, watercraft, and the like. Further,embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with respect to fixedstructures, such as commercial and residential buildings.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective lateral view of a cargo loader 250proximate to a cargo compartment 252 of the aircraft, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure. The cargo loader 250 includes aconveyor 254 that leads into the cargo compartment 252. A distal end 256of the conveyor 254 abuts against or into an entrance 258 of the cargocompartment 252 when a door of the cargo compartment 252 is opened, asin FIG. 10.

Referring to FIGS. 1-10, the cargo 102 is secured to the trolley system100, which is loaded onto the conveyor 254. The conveyor 254 then movesthe trolley system 100, which supports the cargo 102, into the cargocompartment 252. The trolley system 100 ensures that the cargo 102, suchas a power wheelchair, is quickly and safely moved into the cargocompartment 252. If the trolley system 100 was not used, individuals mayfind it difficult to grasp and lift the power wheelchair onto theconveyor 254. Moreover, supporting the power wheelchair directly on theconveyor 254 risks damage to the power wheelchair, as the wheels of thepower wheelchair may cause it to inadvertently roll off the conveyor254.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective internal view of the cargo compartment252, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The cargocompartment 252 includes a floor surface 260. Referring to FIGS. 1-11,the trolley system 100 is configured to be slid over the floor surface260.

If the trolley system 100 was not used, a power wheelchair may bedifficult to move within the cargo compartment 252, due to the confinedspace therein. Moreover, personnel would likely need to know how todisengage brakes of the power wheelchair in order to roll it to adesired location. Further, sliding a power wheelchair requiresovercoming frictional resistance between its rubber wheels and the floorsurface 260.

FIG. 12 illustrates a flow chart of a method of transferring cargo,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIGS.1-12, at 300, the trolley system 100 is moved to a first area, such asat a gate, terminal, or other area where the cargo 102 is located. At302, the cargo 102 is then positioned onto the cargo-retaining platform105 of the trolley system 100. For example, if the cargo 102 is awheelchair or a scooter, such items may be driven onto the platform 105.Optionally, the cargo 102 may be lifted onto the cargo-retainingplatform 105.

At 304, the cargo 102 is secured onto the cargo-retaining platform 105with one or more attachments 190. For example, the attachments 190 maybe tied around portions of the cargo 102 to secure the cargo 102 to thecargo-retaining platform 105.

At 306, the handles 170 and 172 may be moved into extended positions. At308, the trolley assembly 100, which supports the cargo 102, can beupwardly pivoted with the handles 170 and 172 in the extended positionsabout the axis 185 defined by the rollers 182. Then, at 310, the trolleyassembly 100, which supports the cargo 102, can be rolled and/orotherwise moved to a second location, such as proximate to the cargoloader 250.

At 312, the handles 170 and 172 are moved into the retracted positions,so as to provide the grasping portions 174 and 176 extending from theends 114 and 118. At 314, individuals may then grasp the graspingportions 174 and 176 and lift the trolley system 100, which supports thecargo 102, onto the conveyor 254 of the cargo loader 250. The conveyor254 moves the trolley system 100 into the cargo compartment 252. At 316,the trolley system 100, which supports the cargo 102, is then slid to adesired location within the cargo compartment 252. In order to removethe trolley system 100 and the cargo 102 from the cargo compartment 252to a different area (such as a gate of an airport), the method isreversed.

FIG. 13 illustrates a flow chart of a method for transferring cargo inrelation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle. The method includesretaining (400) cargo2 on a cargo-retaining platform of a frame of atrolley system; securing (402) the cargo on the cargo-retaining platformwith one or more attachments coupled to the frame; moving (404) one ormore handles coupled to the frame between a retracted position and anextended position; and sliding (406) a portion of a lower surface of theframe formed of a low friction material over a floor surface.

As an example, the method also includes positioning a retaining pan ofthe frame underneath the cargo.

As an example, said moving includes outwardly extending a first graspingportion and a second grasping portion of the one or more handles fromthe frame when the handles are in the retracted position.

As an example, the method also includes rolling the trolley system viaone or more rollers coupled to the frame.

As an example, the method also includes upwardly pivoting the trolleysystem, by the one or more handles in the extended position, so that theone or more rollers directly contact a floor.

As described herein, embodiments of the present disclosure provide asystem and a method for efficiently, effectively, and safelytransferring large cargo items, such as powered wheelchairs andscooters, in relation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle, such as acommercial aircraft.

While various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower,mid, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front and the like can be used todescribe embodiments of the present disclosure, it is understood thatsuch terms are merely used with respect to the orientations shown in thedrawings. The orientations can be inverted, rotated, or otherwisechanged, such that an upper portion is a lower portion, and vice versa,horizontal becomes vertical, and the like.

As used herein, a structure, limitation, or element that is “configuredto” perform a task or operation is particularly structurally formed,constructed, or adapted in a manner corresponding to the task oroperation. For purposes of clarity and the avoidance of doubt, an objectthat is merely capable of being modified to perform the task oroperation is not “configured to” perform the task or operation as usedherein.

It is to be understood that the above description is intended to beillustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-describedembodiments (and/or aspects thereof) can be used in combination witheach other. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt aparticular situation or material to the teachings of the variousembodiments of the disclosure without departing from their scope. Whilethe dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended todefine the parameters of the various embodiments of the disclosure, theembodiments are by no means limiting and are exemplary embodiments. Manyother embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art uponreviewing the above description. The scope of the various embodiments ofthe disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to theappended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which suchclaims are entitled. In the appended claims and the detailed descriptionherein, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as theplain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and“wherein.” Moreover, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. areused merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numericalrequirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the followingclaims are not written in means-plus-function format and are notintended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. § 112(f), unless and untilsuch claim limitations expressly use the phrase “means for” followed bya statement of function void of further structure.

This written description uses examples to disclose the variousembodiments of the disclosure, including the best mode, and also toenable any person skilled in the art to practice the various embodimentsof the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems andperforming any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the variousembodiments of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and can includeother examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such otherexamples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if theexamples have structural elements that do not differ from the literallanguage of the claims, or if the examples include equivalent structuralelements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of theclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for transferring cargo in relation to acargo compartment of a vehicle, the method comprising: retaining cargoon a cargo-retaining platform of a frame of a trolley system; securingthe cargo on the cargo-retaining platform with one or more attachmentscoupled to the frame; moving one or more handles coupled to the framebetween a retracted position and an extended position; and sliding aportion of a lower surface of the frame formed of a low frictionmaterial over a floor surface.
 2. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising positioning a retaining pan of the frame underneath thecargo.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein said moving comprises outwardlyextending a first grasping portion and a second grasping portion of theone or more handles from the frame when the handles are in the retractedposition.
 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising rolling thetrolley system via one or more rollers coupled to the frame.
 5. Themethod of claim 4, wherein lower surfaces of the one or more rollers arewithin a plane that is above or coplanar with the lower surface of theframe.
 6. The method of claim 4, further comprising upwardly pivotingthe trolley system via the one or more handles in the extended positionabout an axis of the one or more rollers so that the one or more rollersdirectly contact a floor and allow the trolley system to be rolled viathe one or more rollers.
 7. The method of claim 4, further comprisingupwardly pivoting the trolley system, by the one or more handles in theextended position, so that the one or more rollers directly contact afloor.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the frame comprises lowfriction pads that are formed of the low friction material.
 9. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the frame comprises a chamfered first loweredge at a first end, and a chamfered second lower edge at a second endthat is opposite from the first end.
 10. The method of claim 1, whereinthe one or more attachments comprises one or more straps.
 11. The methodof claim 1, wherein the frame comprises: a first handle retainer at afirst side and first end; a second handle retainer at a second side andthe first end, wherein the second side is opposite from the first side;a third handle retainer at the first side and a second end, wherein thesecond end is opposite from the first end, wherein the first handleretainer is spaced apart from and coaxial with the third handleretainer; and a fourth handle retainer at the send side and the secondend, wherein the second handle retainer is spaced apart from and coaxialwith the fourth handle retainer; wherein the trolley system furthercomprises: a first handle moveably retained by the first handle retainerand the third handle retainer of the frame, wherein the first handlecomprises a first grasping portion and a second grasping portionopposite from the first grasping portion; and a second handle moveablyretained by the second handle retainer and the fourth handle retainer ofthe frame, wherein the second handle comprises a third grasping portionand a fourth grasping portion opposite from the third grasping portion,wherein each of the first handle and the second handle is configured tobe moved between a retracted position and an extended position, whereinthe first grasping portion extends outwardly from the first handleretainer in the retracted position, wherein the second grasping portionextends outwardly from the third handle retainer in the retractedposition, wherein the third grasping portion extends outwardly from thesecond handle retainer in the retracted position, and wherein the fourthgrasping portion extends outwardly from the fourth handle retainer inthe retracted position, wherein four grasping areas defined by the firstgrasping portion, the second grasping portion, the third graspingportion, and the fourth grasping portion are available when the firsthandle and the second handle are in the retracted position, wherein thefirst grasping portion and the third grasping portion are outwardlyextended from the first handle retainer and the second handle retainer,respectively, when the first handle and the second handle are in theextended position, and wherein the second grasping portion and thefourth grasping portion are inwardly disposed closer to the first handleretainer and the second handle retainer, respectively, in the extendedposition.
 12. A method for transferring cargo in relation to a cargocompartment of a vehicle, the method comprising: positioning a retainingpan of a frame underneath the cargo; retaining cargo on acargo-retaining platform of the frame of a trolley system; securing thecargo on the cargo-retaining platform with one or more attachmentscoupled to the frame; moving one or more handles coupled to the framebetween a retracted position and an extended position; sliding a portionof a lower surface of the frame formed of a low friction material over afloor surface; upwardly pivoting the trolley system, by the one or morehandles in the extended position, so that one or more rollers directlycontact a floor; and rolling the trolley system via one or more rollerscoupled to the frame.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein said movingcomprises outwardly extending a first grasping portion and a secondgrasping portion of the one or more handles from the frame when thehandles are in the retracted position.
 14. The method of claim 12,wherein lower surfaces of the one or more rollers are within a planethat is above or coplanar with the lower surface of the frame.
 15. Themethod of claim 12, wherein the trolley system is upwardly pivoted viathe one or more handles in the extended position about an axis of theone or more rollers so that the one or more rollers directly contact thefloor and allow the trolley system to be rolled via the one or morerollers.
 16. The method of claim 12, wherein the frame comprises lowfriction pads that are formed of the low friction material.
 17. Themethod of claim 12, wherein the frame comprises a chamfered first loweredge at a first end, and a chamfered second lower edge at a second endthat is opposite from the first end.
 18. The method of claim 12, whereinthe one or more attachments comprises one or more straps.
 19. The methodof claim 12, wherein the frame comprises: a first handle retainer at afirst side and first end; a second handle retainer at a second side andthe first end, wherein the second side is opposite from the first side;a third handle retainer at the first side and a second end, wherein thesecond end is opposite from the first end, wherein the first handleretainer is spaced apart from and coaxial with the third handleretainer; and a fourth handle retainer at the send side and the secondend, wherein the second handle retainer is spaced apart from and coaxialwith the fourth handle retainer; wherein the trolley system furthercomprises: a first handle moveably retained by the first handle retainerand the third handle retainer of the frame, wherein the first handlecomprises a first grasping portion and a second grasping portionopposite from the first grasping portion; and a second handle moveablyretained by the second handle retainer and the fourth handle retainer ofthe frame, wherein the second handle comprises a third grasping portionand a fourth grasping portion opposite from the third grasping portion,wherein each of the first handle and the second handle is configured tobe moved between a retracted position and an extended position, whereinthe first grasping portion extends outwardly from the first handleretainer in the retracted position, wherein the second grasping portionextends outwardly from the third handle retainer in the retractedposition, wherein the third grasping portion extends outwardly from thesecond handle retainer in the retracted position, and wherein the fourthgrasping portion extends outwardly from the fourth handle retainer inthe retracted position, wherein four grasping areas defined by the firstgrasping portion, the second grasping portion, the third graspingportion, and the fourth grasping portion are available when the firsthandle and the second handle are in the retracted position, wherein thefirst grasping portion and the third grasping portion are outwardlyextended from the first handle retainer and the second handle retainer,respectively, when the first handle and the second handle are in theextended position, and wherein the second grasping portion and thefourth grasping portion are inwardly disposed closer to the first handleretainer and the second handle retainer, respectively, in the extendedposition.
 20. A method for transferring cargo in relation to a cargocompartment of a vehicle, the method comprising: positioning a retainingpan of a frame underneath the cargo, wherein the frame comprises: (i)low friction pads that are formed of a low friction material, (ii) achamfered first lower edge at a first end, and (iii) a chamfered secondlower edge at a second end that is opposite from the first end;retaining cargo on a cargo-retaining platform of the frame of a trolleysystem; securing the cargo on the cargo-retaining platform with one ormore attachments coupled to the frame, wherein the one or moreattachments comprises one or more straps; moving one or more handlescoupled to the frame between a retracted position and an extendedposition, wherein said moving comprises outwardly extending a firstgrasping portion and a second grasping portion of the one or morehandles from the frame when the handles are in the retracted position;sliding a portion of a lower surface of the frame formed of the lowfriction material over a floor surface; upwardly pivoting the trolleysystem, by the one or more handles in the extended position, so that oneor more rollers directly contact a floor, wherein lower surfaces of theone or more rollers are within a plane that is above or coplanar withthe lower surface of the frame, and wherein the trolley system isupwardly pivoted via the one or more handles in the extended positionabout an axis of the one or more rollers so that the one or more rollersdirectly contact the floor and allow the trolley system to be rolled viathe one or more rollers; and rolling the trolley system via one or morerollers coupled to the frame.